Overview
From micro-scale local business decisions, through to the macro-scale actions of governments, the influence of economics is profound and far-reaching. For example, the interaction between micro and macro economics can be seen in the 2008 US housing crash and the subsequent crisis in global financial institutions.
Board: Edexcel
Economics A level is highly valued by universities because students learn how to evaluate data both mathematically and through written analysis. The programme will focus on key economic concepts that remain relevant to the world today.
Course Structure
Teaching begins in September (January for 18 month courses). In the first year you will cover the following two topics:
- Theme 1: Markets and Market Failure
- Theme 2: UK Economy – Performance and Policies
Students may take the AS exam at the end of the first year of the programme. The second year then builds on this foundation for the completion of the full A level. In the second year you will focus on the following themes:
- Theme 3: Business Behaviour and the Labour Market
- Theme 4: A Global Perspective
Exam Structure
A level Exam Format
| Paper 1 | Paper 2 | Paper 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Themes 1 and 3 2 hours |
Themes 2 and 4 2 hours |
Synoptic Paper 2 hours |
Economics One-Year A level
The board, format and content are the same as the two-year programme, but the course is covered in the space of one year. The stand-alone AS papers would not be sat.
Programme Requirements
Students do not need prior knowledge of economics, but they need to demonstrate a strong interest in the subject. In addition, they need a good level of English and mathematics.
Related Further Study and Careers
Many A level Economics students go on to read economics or a subject combination involving economics, such as management or PPE at university. In addition, finance-related subjects at university also welcome students who have studied A level Economics.
